Chief Adviser (CA) Professor Muhammad Yunus on Friday expressed optimism that the women of Bangladesh will progress in tandem with the developed world to fulfill the vision of a prosperous nation.

“The women of Bangladesh will move forward in line with the developed world to realize the dream of building a developed Bangladesh. This should be our commitment to the development and empowerment of women in Bangladesh,” he stated in a message ahead of International Women’s Day, observed in the country on Saturday.

Recalling the significance of the occasion, Dr. Yunus mentioned, “In 1975, the United Nations recognized March 8 as International Women’s Day. Like other countries in the world, this day is celebrated every year in Bangladesh to protect women’s rights.”

He highlighted that this year’s theme is “Rights, Equality, Empowerment/Development of Women and Girls.”

Reflecting on women’s contributions to the recent student-led movement, Dr. Yunus acknowledged their pivotal role in the mass uprising of July-August, where students, workers, and citizens united for democratic transformation.

“Thousands of students protested against oppression on various campuses. Several women were martyred in this mass uprising,” he said, paying tribute to those who lost their lives and extending condolences to the “July warriors.”

Emphasizing the significance of women’s participation, he remarked, “Half of the country’s population is women. They are moving forward in all fields.”

Dr. Yunus noted that the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs is implementing various programs to enhance women’s participation in economic development. He highlighted the importance of shelter homes for vulnerable women and the role of ‘Women’s Support Centers’ in providing legal assistance.

He also underscored the impact of housing initiatives for working women and microcredit programs aimed at fostering self-employment, financial independence, and social security.

Praising the resilience of Bangladeshi women, Dr. Yunus said they are making strides on the international stage, bringing pride to the nation.

“Various initiatives have been taken to recognize the achievements of women, including the ‘Odommo Nari Puroskar’ and the ‘Begum Rokeya Padak’,” he added.

He reaffirmed the interim government’s dedication to utilizing women’s potential and skills in productive sectors to achieve the goal of a developed Bangladesh.